Arsenal Transfers: Real Madrid Set Terms for Sale as Gunners Midfielder Opts to Leave
2 min read
Reports indicate that Real Madrid are open to selling Ukrainian international Andriy Lunin to Arsenal, setting an affordable asking price for the goalkeeper.
Andriy Lunin joined Real Madrid in 2018 but had only made 17 senior appearances for the club prior to this season. Initially the third-choice goalkeeper, he stepped up following injuries to Thibaut Courtois and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Lunin impressed with 31 appearances, contributing to Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga victories.
However, with Courtois regaining fitness and reclaiming his starting position towards the season’s end, Lunin was left out of the Champions League final squad. Now, Lunin is reportedly eager to leave Real Madrid in search of a starting role elsewhere.
Arsenal, having signed Spanish international David Raya on loan last summer, made his transfer permanent for £27 million. Despite this, they are reportedly competing with Manchester United for Lunin’s signature. According to Spanish sources, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is particularly keen on acquiring Lunin, with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez setting the asking price at €25 million (£21 million).
Arsenal are expected to see several transfers this summer, with midfielder Emile Smith Rowe likely among the departures. Football Insider reports that Smith Rowe intends to leave Arsenal, attracting interest from three Premier League clubs.
Smith Rowe is reportedly seeking a starting XI role, having struggled to secure a place in Mikel Arteta’s first-choice lineup. Arsenal are open to high offers for the 23-year-old, who has two years remaining on his current contract and appears unlikely to extend it.
Aston Villa, previously rebuffed in their approach for Smith Rowe, remain interested and offer the lure of Champions League football. Fulham and Crystal Palace have also made inquiries. While Arteta prefers to keep Smith Rowe, another year without regular playtime could see his market value drop. Arsenal are holding out for offers exceeding £30 million, considering Smith Rowe’s age, homegrown status, and talent.
